Class 12 Political Science - HARYANA
Crisis of Democratic Order
The chapter 'Crisis of Democratic Order' in Class 12 Political Science examines one of the most turbulent phases in independent India's history: the imposition of the nationwide Emergency in 1975 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. For Haryana (BSEH) board students, this chapter is crucial as it explores background factors like economic crises, student agitations, and the clash between the judiciary and the executive. It details the severe consequences of the Emergency on democratic functioning, civil liberties, and the press, while also analyzing the 1977 Lok Sabha elections that restored democracy and established a multi-party system.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
The National Emergency (1975)
Declared on June 25, 1975, citing 'internal disturbances,' it suspended fundamental rights, censored the press, and led to the arrest of major opposition leaders.
Judicial Overreach and Conflict
A major institutional clash between the ruling government and the judiciary regarding the amendment of the Constitution and the appointment of the Chief Justice of India.
Shah Commission
An inquiry commission appointed by the Janata Party government in 1977 to investigate the misuse of authority and excesses committed during the Emergency.
The 1977 Elections
A watershed election where the newly formed Janata Party defeated the Congress for the first time at the Centre, proving the strength of Indian voters in upholding democracy.
Lessons of the Emergency
Key constitutional and political learnings, including the replacement of 'internal disturbance' with 'armed rebellion' and the strengthening of judicial autonomy.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
This chapter typically carries around 6-8 marks in the Haryana (BSEH) board exam. Questions usually include objective-type questions (MCQs/fill-in-the-blanks) about the date and reasons for the Emergency, short-answer questions on the consequences of the Emergency, and long-answer questions explaining the background or the lessons learned from this crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Emergency declared in India in 1975?
It was declared due to a combination of severe economic crises, massive student protests (like the Bihar and Gujarat movements), nationwide railway strikes, and political pressure following the Allahabad High Court verdict against Indira Gandhi.
What were the major consequences of the Emergency?
Key consequences included the suspension of Fundamental Rights, strict censorship of the press, detention of opposition leaders without trial, and centralization of power in the hands of the Union government.
Why are the 1977 elections considered historic?
The 1977 elections marked the first time the Indian National Congress lost power at the Centre since independence, leading to the formation of the first non-Congress government under the Janata Party.
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